Neponset, Boston facts for kids
Neponset is a neighborhood located in the southeastern part of Dorchester, Boston, Massachusetts, United States. It's a place with a rich history, especially connected to the Native American people who lived there long ago.
What is Neponset?
Neponset is a district within the larger area of Dorchester, which is one of Boston's many neighborhoods. It sits near the coast, giving it a unique connection to the water. The name "Neponset" itself comes from the original inhabitants of this land.
A Look Back in Time: The Neponset People
Long before European settlers arrived, the land that is now Neponset was home to the Neponset people. They were a group of Native Americans who lived in this area for many centuries. They were part of the larger Massachusett tribe and had their own culture, traditions, and way of life, living off the land and the nearby rivers.
Early Encounters: John Eliot and the Native Americans
In 1646, a missionary named John Eliot visited the Native American community in what is now Lower Mills, a part of Dorchester. He tried to teach them about Christianity. The leader of this community was a Sachem named Cutshamekin. However, Eliot's efforts were not successful in convincing the tribe to change their beliefs. Eventually, the Neponset people moved from this area to a place called Ponkapoag, which is now part of the town of Canton, Massachusetts. This move was part of a larger historical shift as European settlements grew.
